How to Measure Testicle Size or Testicular Volume?

What does the testicle size measurement help?

Help distinguish between the different types of precocious puberty.

• If the testicular growth is delayed or normal in the boy’s pubertal period, then we can confirm if it is precocious puberty.
• Small testicle sizes can indicate either primary or secondary hypogonadism.
• Large testes (macroorchidism) can be a clue to one of the most common causes of inherited generalized learning disability, fragile X syndrome.

Testicle size is not only crucial for the assessment of puberty and development but also for fertility evaluation and hormone imbalance identification.

What is the best way to measure testicle size or testicular volume?

Testicular size or volume can be measured using various methods, but it's important to note that any concerns or measurements related to your testicles should be discussed with a qualified medical professional.

Orchidometer

This is a medical instrument that consists of a series of oval-shaped beads of increasing size. A doctor or healthcare provider can compare the size of your testicles to the beads and estimate their volume.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound imaging can provide precise measurements of testicular size and volume. It is a non-invasive and safe method that uses sound waves to create images of internal structures. This method is often used in medical settings to assess various conditions.

MRI or CT scan

These imaging techniques can also provide accurate measurements of testicular size and volume. However, they are usually reserved for more complex cases or specific medical evaluations.

Prader Orchidometer

Similar to a regular orchidometer, the Prader orchidometer is a series of differently-sized wooden or plastic beads. A doctor can compare your testicles to these beads to estimate their volume.

Vernier Calipers

In some cases, doctors may use calipers to measure testicular dimensions, such as length, width, and height. This method is less common and may be used in specialized cases.

Clinical Examination

During a physical examination, a doctor may use their hands to palpate and assess the size and consistency of your testicles. While this method doesn't provide a direct measurement of volume, it can give the doctor an idea of any abnormalities.

Medical Imaging Software

In some cases, medical professionals may use specialized software to analyze ultrasound or imaging data to calculate testicular volume more accurately.

Obviously, Orchidometer is the easiest and most convenient way to measure testicular volume. Especially the wooden Prader Orchidometer is safe for personal use at home.

How to measure testicle size or testicular volume with Prader Orchidometer?

Compare the beads with the testicles, and read the volume from the bead which matches most closely in size. That is the volume of the testicles.

Compared to the tanner stage, it is the most convenient method for you to know if your testicles are small or large.

Male External Genitalia Scale:

Stage 1: Testicular volume < 4 ml or long axis < 2.5 cm

Stage 2: 4 ml-8 ml (or 2.5 to 3.3 cm long), 1st pubertal sign in males

Stage 3: 9 ml-12 ml (or 3.4 to 4.0 cm long)

Stage 4: 15-20 ml (or 4.1 to 4.5 cm long)

Stage 5: > 20 ml (or > 4.5 cm long)

Refer to: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470280/

It's important to remember that normal testicular size can vary greatly between individuals. So it is better to keep a Wooden Prader Orchidometer for personal use at home. Be aware of testicular abnormalities and seek professional help at any time. If you have any concerns about your testicles, such as pain, discomfort, changes in size, or any other symptoms, it's crucial to seek medical advice promptly. A doctor can perform the necessary evaluations and recommend appropriate tests or treatments if needed.

What does the orchidometer mean?

An orchidometer (or orchiometer) is a medical instrument for measuring the volume of the testicles. Good for endocrinologists, doctors, or patients to measure the size of the testicles.

Stephen Shalet, a leading endocrinologist who works for the Christie Hospital in Manchester has said, "Every endocrinologist should have an orchidometer. It's his stethoscope." 

Ultrassist Prader Testicle Orchidometer is made based on the design of Swiss pediatric endocrinologist Andrea Prader. Consists of a string of twelve numbered wooden beads of increasing size from about 1 to 25 milliliters. Doctors or everyone could use it to measure testicle size or volume conveniently in a hospital or at home.